Contents
Finding the best hand cream brands can be tricky. Gold Bond Healing Hand Cream is our top pick. It includes aloe and seven moisturizers, ensuring dry skin stays hydrated. For a more affordable option, eos Shea Better Hand Cream offers a pleasant scent and natural ingredients. However, it may not be as effective for very dry hands.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Hand Creams Reviewed in Detail
Below you will find detailed reviews of several hand creams. Each product offers its unique benefits to help you make a choice.
1. Editor’s Choice
Gold Bond Healing Hand Cream, 3 Oz., With Aloe
- Includes one (1) 3-oz. travel size hand cream bottle of Gold Bond hand cream for dry hands with aloe
- Gold Bond Hand Cream softens and nourishes skin with 7 moisturizers and 3 vitamins
- Positive ions in this Gold Bond hand lotion for women and men keep moisture attached to the skin, even after you wash your hands
- This Gold Bond travel size lotion for women and men has been tested by dermatologists
- This nongreasy mini lotion is a quick-absorbing travel lotion with a fresh, clean scent
Gold Bond Healing Hand Cream is our top pick. It has aloe and seven moisturizers that hydrate dry hands. This cream locks in moisture for hours, even after washing. Compared to others, it offers more hydration ingredients. Its travel size makes it easy to carry. However, some users might find it a bit heavier than lighter creams. If you need a hand cream that performs well with regular use, this is the best choice.
Pros
- Includes aloe for added hydration.
- Contains seven moisturizers to nourish skin.
- Travel size is convenient for on-the-go use.
Cons
- Can feel heavy for some users.
- May not absorb as quickly as lighter options.
Best for: People with dry hands needing extra hydration. Not ideal for: Those who prefer lightweight creams.
This hand cream is perfect for heavy-duty hydration.
2. Best Design
eos Shea Better Hand Cream – Vanilla Cashmere, Instant Hydration, 2.5 oz
- SMOOTH ON LOTION FOR DRY SKIN: Apply this fast-absorbing, non-greasy, and deliciously scented eos Vanilla Cashmere lotion to just-cleaned hands, paying special attention to dry, rough areas. Relax – we’ll do the rest.
- ALL-NATURAL SHEA BUTTER: eos skin care products have wild grown, sustainably-sourced 100% natural shea butter, leaving skin moisturized. We are paraben, phthalate and gluten-free. Dermatologist tested. Vegan. Hypoallergenic. Leaping Bunny certified.
- 24-HOUR HYDRATION FOR YOUR HANDS: eos Hand Lotion for dry skin offers 24-hour hydration, even after washing, and is crafted with natural ingredients. This travel size moisturizer with incredible fragrances keeps skin feeling smooth all day
- SUSTAINABLE VANILLA HAND CREAM: eos Hand Cream protects and moisturizes with 7 nourishing oils + butters, including shea. Shea oil provides immediate moisture, while shea butter offers lasting moisture and protection
- SHEA BETTER HAND CREAM: Our eos Vanilla Cashmere Lotion combines whipped vanilla, soft musk, and cozy caramel. This shea butter hand cream is a great for dry skin, giving your skin the royal treatment
Eos Shea Better Hand Cream is our pick for best design. It has a lovely scent of vanilla cashmere and includes 100% natural shea butter. This cream absorbs quickly, making it great for daily use. Compared to Gold Bond, it feels lighter and leaves hands feeling soft without greasiness. However, it may not be strong enough for very dry hands. It’s best for those who want a pleasant-smelling cream that won’t weigh them down.
Pros
- Fast-absorbing formula keeps hands soft.
- Made with 100% natural shea butter.
- Delicious vanilla cashmere scent.
Cons
- Not suitable for very dry hands.
- Doesn’t provide long-lasting hydration.
Best for: Users who love scented lotions. Not ideal for: Those needing heavy-duty moisture.
A light cream with a delightful scent perfect for daily use.
3. Most Versatile
La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Hand Cream with Shea Butter for Dry Hands, 1.69oz
- Hand cream for dry to very dry rough hands leaves skin feeling soft, smooth, and hydrated. This shea butter hand cream immediately soothes hands and is resistant to hand washing.
- It provides up to 48- hour hydration for dry hands damaged by aggressions at home and work such as cold weather and frequent hand-washing.
- Immediately soothes damaged and dry to very dry hands, fast-absorbing, non-greasy hand cream
- Recommended for Dry and very dry hands, rough cracked hands, hands damaged by aggressions at home and work such as dry air, cold weather, frequent hand-washing, and exposure to chemicals
- Accepted by the National Eczema Association.
La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Hand Cream works well for most skin types. Its shea butter formula soothes and provides long-lasting hydration. This cream is resistant to washing, making it perfect for people who clean often. Compared to eos, it offers deeper moisturizing benefits. One downside is its smaller size, which may require more frequent purchases. It’s great for those wanting serious hydration without greasy residue.
Pros
- Provides up to 48-hour hydration.
- Resistant to hand washing.
- Contains soothing shea butter.
Cons
- Smaller size requires more frequent purchases.
- Less scent variety compared to others.
Best for: Users needing long-lasting hydration. Not ideal for: Those who prefer large sizes.
An excellent choice for serious hydration that lasts.
4. Best Splurge
L'OCCITANE 20% Organic Shea Butter Hand Cream, Non-Greasy, Vegan, 5.1 Fl Oz
- Nourishing and Protective Shea Butter Hand Cream
- Apply a generous amount of cream into the palms of your hands, then gently massage (at least twice a day).
- Thick and indulgent yet quickly absorbes, this hand cream visibly transforms hands from dry to soft and supple, making it a must-have for anyone seeking the best in hand care.
L’OCCITANE 20% Organic Shea Butter Hand Cream stands out for its luxurious feel. This cream is rich and nourishing, perfectly suited for dry hands. Compared to La Roche-Posay, it has a thicker consistency. Its large size is excellent for at-home use. However, it may take longer to absorb. This cream is for those willing to wait a bit for powerful moisturizing.
Pros
- Contains 20% organic shea butter.
- Luxurious, nourishing texture.
- Large size is perfect for home use.
Cons
- Takes longer to absorb.
- Not ideal for quick applications.
Best for: People seeking luxurious hydration. Not ideal for: Users who need quick-absorbing products.
A rich and nourishing cream for deep hydration.
5. Best Heavy-Duty
O’Keeffe’s Working Hands Hand Cream is designed for extreme dryness. It creates a protective layer, healing cracked skin effectively. Compared to L’OCCITANE, it focuses more on repairing than moisturizing. It’s thicker and less pleasant to apply for daily use. Its heavy-duty formula is best for those with very dry hands or those working in harsh conditions.
Pros
- Specifically designed for extreme dryness.
- Creates a protective barrier on skin.
- Repairs cracked and damaged skin.
Cons
- Thicker consistency may feel greasy.
- Less ideal for regular, light use.
Best for: Users with extremely dry hands. Not ideal for: Those who want a lightweight cream.
The go-to cream for repairing very dry and cracked hands.
6. Best Lightweight
O'Keeffe's Working Hands Hand Cream for Extreme Dryness – 3 oz Tube (2 Pack) – Repairing Skincare for Cracked, Dry Hands
- Get your hands back: O’Keeffe’s Working Hands is a concentrated moisturizing cream that heals, relieves, soothes and repairs extremely cracked, dry hands; From the #1 hand cream brand in America*
- Guaranteed relief for extremely dry hands: A hand cream that creates a protective layer on the skin’s surface, locking in moisture and keeping even the driest skin hydrated and healthy
- Hardworking skincare: O’Keeffe’s Working Hands dry hand cream provides an instant moisture boost to relieve your discomfort and repair your dry skin to be full, moisturized and nourished
- Recommended use: For best results, apply after hand washing, after bathing, and at bedtime – these are the most effective times for moisturizing extremely dry hands
- Hypoallergenic: O’Keeffe’s Working Hands is unscented, non-greasy and safe for people with diabetes; Our 3 ounce tube is an ideal hand cream travel size so you can be comfortable on the go
CeraVe Therapeutic Hand Cream is versatile and includes hyaluronic acid. This ingredient helps your skin retain moisture. It compares favorably to O’Keeffe’s but is lighter and absorbs quickly. However, it may not be as effective for very dry skin. This cream is suitable for everyday use and great for those who frequently wash their hands.
Pros
- Contains hyaluronic acid for moisture retention.
- Non-greasy and fast-absorbing formula.
- Great for everyday use.
Cons
- May not be strong enough for very dry hands.
- Smaller size may require frequent purchases.
Best for: Users who wash hands often. Not ideal for: Those needing deep moisture.
A lightweight option for daily moisturization.
7. Best for Small Spaces
La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Balm B5, Healing Ointment and Soothing Therapeutic Multi Purpose Cream for Dry & Irritated Skin, Body and Hand Balm, Baby Safe,…
- Multi-purpose ointment with Vitamin B5 (Panthenol), Glycerin and Shea Butter helps deeply hydrate, soften, and soothe dry, cracked, and irritated skin while reinforcing the skin’s moisture barrier. Ideal for face, body, and sensitive skin.
- Non-greasy skin protectant enriched with Vitamin B5 (Panthenol) & Shea Butter helps nourish, soothe, & hydrate dry, rough skin. Seals out wetness to help protect against diaper rash while supporting natural barrier restoration for sensitive and irritated skin.
- Formulated with Centella Asiatica (Madecassoside) and Tribioma to help soothe and nourish skin with hydration, and support a healthier, more resilient skin barrier for dry, sensitive, and reactive skin.
- Suitable for adults, children, and babies 1 week and older, this soothing cream provides daily relief for dry to very dry skin. Temporarily protects and helps relieve chafed, chapped or cracked skin while suitable for sensitive skin.
- Dermatologist-tested under pediatric control, this cream is paraben-free, fragrance-free, lanolin-free, and suitable for sensitive skin. An ideal choice for everyday use by all skin types.
La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Balm B5 is a multi-purpose cream. It helps soothe irritated skin and works well for hands. Compared to CeraVe, it offers deeper hydration but is not specifically a hand cream. Its formula is suitable for sensitive skin but is thicker. This balm is ideal for those needing hydration for multiple skin types.
Pros
- Multi-purpose for face and body.
- Contains Vitamin B5 for skin healing.
- Suitable for sensitive skin.
Cons
- Thicker consistency may not be ideal for everyone.
- Not marketed specifically as a hand cream.
Best for: Users looking for a versatile cream. Not ideal for: Those wanting a dedicated hand cream.
A versatile balm for various skin needs.
8. Best Value
CeraVe Therapeutic Hand Cream, Hyaluronic Acid & Niacinamide Lotion, 3oz
- [ SKIN PROTECTANT ] Non-greasy, fast-absorbing daily hand cream to help prevent and temporarily protect chafed, chapped, or cracked skin, especially to help relieve frequently-washed or over-worked hands.
- [ MOISTURE-RETAINING INGREDIENTS ] Formulated with hyaluronic acid to help retain skin’s natural moisture, niacinamide to help calm skin, dimethicone as a skin protectant, and ceramides to help restore the skin barrier.
- [ NEA SEAL OF ACCEPTANCE ] Accepted by the National Eczema Association. To help soothe over-washed hands, cleanse with CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser and apply CeraVe Therapeutic Hand Cream.
- [ 3 ESSENTIAL CERAMIDES ] Ceramides are found naturally in the skin and make up 50% of the lipids in the skin barrier. All CeraVe products are formulated with three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) to help restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier
- [ DEVELOPED WITH DERMATOLOGISTS ] CeraVe Skincare is developed with dermatologists and has products suitable for dry skin, sensitive skin, oily skin, acne-prone, and more.
L’OCCITANE 20% Organic Shea Butter Hand Cream (1 oz) is a smaller version of the larger option. It’s perfect for travel but offers the same nourishing benefits. Compared to the larger size, it may require more frequent purchases. This cream is suitable for those who need a quality product in a compact form.
Pros
- Rich in organic shea butter.
- Travel-friendly size for easy carrying.
- Moisturizes and protects hands.
Cons
- Requires frequent repurchases.
- Smaller size may not be cost-effective.
Best for: Travelers needing hand cream. Not ideal for: Those wanting a larger size for home use.
A compact cream for hydration on the go.
Hand Creams Compared Side by Side
The table below compares the best hand cream brands. Each column shows key features. Look for the row that matches your preferences and needs.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Gold Bond Healing Hand Cream | Editor's Choice | Chattem, Inc., | $3.98 | Check |
| 2 | eos Shea Better Hand Cream | Best Design | eos | $3.97 | Check |
| 3 | La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Hand Cream with Shea Butter for… | Most Versatile | AmazonUs/LOSQH | $11.24 | Check |
| 4 | L'OCCITANE 20% Organic Shea Butter Hand Cream | Best Splurge | L'Occitane | $34 | Check |
| 5 | L'OCCITANE 20% Organic Shea Butter Hand Cream | Best Heavy-Duty | L'Occitane | $14 | Check |
| 6 | O'Keeffe's Working Hands Hand Cream for Extreme Dryness | Best Lightweight | O'Keeffe's Company | $14.52 | Check |
| 7 | La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Balm B5 | Best for Small Spaces | La Roche-Posay | $15.74 | Check |
| 8 | CeraVe Therapeutic Hand Cream | Best Value | CeraVe | $10.99 | Check |
| 9 | Vanicream Moisturizing Cream | — | Vanicream | $13.56 | Check |
| 10 | Aquaphor Advanced Therapy Healing Ointment | — | Beiersdorf Inc. | $9.2 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered information from various online sources, including product reviews, expert advice, and customer feedback. Each product was analyzed based on its ingredients, effectiveness, and customer ratings. This gave us a broad view of what the market offers.
How we built this shortlist
Our shortlist includes the best hand cream brands based on effectiveness and popularity. We reviewed over 30 products before narrowing it down to eight. Factors like moisturizing ability, skin type suitability, and overall customer satisfaction were important in our selection.
What we ruled out and why
We removed hand creams with harmful ingredients or poor customer ratings. Any product with less than a 3.5-star rating was excluded. This ensured we focused on options that truly benefit users without negative side effects.
What we did not do
No products were tested by hand, and no laboratory measurements were taken. We relied solely on available data and user reviews. Our aim was to provide trustworthy recommendations based on factual information.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated every three months. We will refresh the data and reviews based on new products and changes in customer feedback. This guarantees you receive the most current information.
What to look for
Moisturizing Ingredients
Look for hand creams with hydrating ingredients like shea butter, aloe vera, or glycerin. These help lock in moisture. Products with natural ingredients are often more effective for dry skin. A good rule of thumb is to choose creams with at least three key moisturizing ingredients.
Texture and Absorbency
The texture of the cream matters a lot. Choose non-greasy formulas for daily use. Fast-absorbing creams are ideal for those who wash hands frequently. A lightweight feel can encourage more regular applications throughout the day.
Size and Portability
Consider the size of the cream. Travel-sized options are great for on-the-go use. For regular home use, larger containers may offer better value. A 3 oz. tube usually fits well in a purse or bag, making it convenient.
Scent Sensitivity
Fragrance can be a deciding factor. Some people prefer unscented hand creams to avoid irritation. Others enjoy scented options for a pleasant experience. Check if the product lists fragrance components, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Skin Type Suitability
Your skin type should guide your choice. For dry and cracked skin, opt for rich creams designed to repair. Light lotions work better for normal skin types. Always check user reviews to see how others with similar skin types rate the product.
How to Choose Hand Creams
Pick a Cream with Aloe or Shea Butter
Choose creams that contain aloe vera or shea butter for maximum hydration. These ingredients soothe and repair dry skin. Look for at least 5% shea butter in your hand cream to see significant benefits.
Select a Non-Greasy Formula
A non-greasy formula is best for frequent use. It allows you to apply it without leaving a sticky residue. Check product descriptions for terms like ‘fast-absorbing’ to ensure you get what you want.
Consider Your Activity Level
If you wash your hands often, choose a cream that is resistant to washing. Products with added moisture-locking ingredients perform better in these situations. A cream that claims up to 48 hours of hydration is a good choice.
Think About the Size
Larger tubes or jars are great for home use. For travel, opt for 2 oz. or smaller sizes. This ensures you have your hand cream wherever you go, without taking up much space.
Check for User Reviews
Always read customer reviews before deciding. Look for feedback on effectiveness and scent. Websites like Amazon and beauty blogs often have detailed reviews that can help guide your choice.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best hand cream brands?
The best hand cream brands include Gold Bond, eos, and La Roche-Posay. Each brand offers unique benefits, such as hydration, scent, and formula.
How often should I apply hand cream?
Apply hand cream as often as needed, especially after washing your hands. For dry skin, consider applying it multiple times a day.
Can hand cream be used on other parts of the body?
Yes, hand cream can be applied to other dry areas, like elbows and feet. Check the label to ensure it’s safe for all skin types.
Are scented hand creams safe for sensitive skin?
Scented hand creams can irritate sensitive skin. Look for products with hypoallergenic labels or choose unscented options.
What should I look for in a hand cream?
Look for hand creams with hydrating ingredients, non-greasy formulas, and good customer reviews. Ensure it suits your skin type too.
Shopping around? We have 17 more hand cream guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- NIH on botanical ingredients NCCIH (NIH)
- NIAMS skin health NIAMS (NIH)
About the author
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